Collar vs. Harness for Dogs: Pros, Cons, and Anatomical Considerations

Deciding between a collar and a harness can be a common dilemma for any dog owner. Each option has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, even when the collar of the harness has been fitted properly. Making the right choice depends on several factors, including your dog's size, breed,  behaviour and intended use.  

Collars for Dogs Pros:

1. Identification and Tags: Collars are a popular choice for displaying identification tags, which is crucial in case your dog gets lost. It provides an easy way for others to contact you if your pet goes missing.
2. Training Tool: Collars can be used for basic obedience training, such as teaching your dog to walk on a leash without pulling.
3. Minimal Coverage: Collars are easy to get on or off and are often left on inside the home. They are also suitable for dogs who dislike the feeling of something wrapped around their torso like a harness.

Cons:

1. Risk of Neck Injury: It's important to be mindful of the pressure that collars can put on your dog's neck, as this can be harmful, especially for breeds that are prone to tracheal issues or pull excessively. Some breeds, such as Dobermans or Great Danes, are more susceptible to neck issues, including a condition known as 'Wobblers', which can lead to injury. To prevent further harm, it's best to use a harness instead of a collar for these dogs.
2. Limited Control: For dogs that are strong pullers, collars may offer less control compared to harnesses, as they put more pressure on the neck rather than distributing it evenly.
3. Not Ideal for Small Breeds: Small breeds with delicate necks may be more susceptible to injury when using a collar, making harnesses a safer option.
4. Anatomy:  Some dog breeds have unique neck anatomy that makes a standard collar unsuitable. Greyhounds, for instance, have a thicker neck than their head, making standard collars prone to slipping off. It's crucial to ensure that the collar is correctly fitted to your dog's breed and anatomy. For Greyhounds, using a martingale collar or a harness is recommended to ensure a proper fit without the risk of the collar slipping off.

Harnesses for Dogs Pros:

1. Even Distribution of Pressure: Harnesses distribute the force evenly across your dog's chest and shoulders, reducing the risk of neck strain or injury, making them an excellent choice for dogs that pull on the leash. They generally come in two different types; a restrictive harness or a Y harness 
2. Added Security: Harnesses provide added security, minimizing the chances of your dog slipping out of their collar.
3. Ideal for Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs with flat faces, such as bulldogs or pugs, benefit from harnesses as they reduce the risk of respiratory distress that can be caused by collars.
4. Types of harnesses: Generally speaking, harnesses come in two different types; the Y-shaped harness and the restrictive harness. The former sits close to the neck and loops under the chest while the restrictive straps across the front of the shoulders. There is speculation that the restrictive harness can limit the mobility of the shoulder while the Y-shaped harness can compress through the base of the neck if not fitted right.

Cons:

1. Not Ideal for Houdini Dogs: Some dogs are masters at escaping harnesses, so it's essential to choose a well-fitted and secure option if your dog tends to be an escape artist.
2. Size and Bulk: Some harnesses can be bulky and might not be suitable for very small dogs or dogs with thick fur. Look for lightweight and adjustable options.
3. Training Challenges: While harnesses are excellent for control, they might not offer the same level of training assistance as collars, which can make leash training a bit more challenging.

Anatomical Consideration

Understanding your dog's anatomy is crucial when deciding between a collar and a harness:

1. Neck Sensitivity: Dogs with sensitive necks or specific medical conditions, like cervical spine issues, should typically use harnesses to avoid exacerbating these problems.
2. Spinal column and intervertebral discs: There are seven vertebrae in the dog's neck separated by discs. Tension in these areas can cause injury to the spinal cord (housed inside the vertebral column) joints within the vertebra themselves or the discs. 
3. Muscles: You should always be thinking about 'what lies underneath the collar' if your dog is a regular puller or is prone to cervical spine issues.  There is a multitude of muscles that lie under the collar to help hold the dog's head up against gravity.  Collars can go on to cause muscle pain, stains or even contusions! Likewise, there are some important tendons and muscles that cross over the shoulder joint where a harness sits such as the bicep or supraspinatus tendon. 
4. Skin: When harnesses are in contact with skin, especially under the armpits and around the chest, they can cause skin irritations, especially if they are left on for too long or become wet.
5. Lymphatic system: The lymphatic system is a collection of tubules and nodes, filled with fluid, that help our immune system.  A collar can cause compression on these vital organs and cause swelling or impaired immunity. 
6. Respiratory Health: Breeds with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds) or respiratory issues should use harnesses to prevent pressure on their airways. The trachea is the windpipe which is C-shaped and has cartilage-shaped rings around it.  These rings can become impaired with a collar and can squeeze the trachea resulting in respiratory issues. 
7. Blood Vessels: Damage to the important arteries and blood vessels in the neck can lead to impaired blood flow to the brain due to pressure.
8. Nerves:  On either side of the neck are paired nerves that supply the neck and also the front limbs of the dog.  Pressure to these can lead to neurological signs and symptoms such as weakness, pain and impaired motor function. 
9. Thyroid:  This small, butterfly-shaped gland regulates metabolism, body temperature, heart and respiratory rate, brain development, cell growth, and mood. Mechanical pressure by a collar can damage this gland and cause issues like hypothyroidism. 

 The choice between a collar and a harness for your dog should depend on your dog's individual needs, size, breed, and behaviour. For most dogs, a harness provides a safer and more comfortable option for both walking and general use. However, collars may be appropriate for specific training purposes or for dogs that tolerate them well. Regardless of your choice, always ensure that the equipment fits properly and is comfortable and if you are ever in doubt, have a chat to your friendly veterinarian or canine physiotherapist. 
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